Obituaries
Melissa A. Bigler, 48
October 11, 2023
Melissa A. Bigler, 48, of Millersville, PA, passed away on Wednesday, October 11, 2023, at Lancaster General Hospital. She was a beloved daughter, wife, and friend, known to many as “Missy.”
Born in Lancaster, PA, she was the daughter of Mildred Elaine (Rickett) and Clair “Chico” Eugene Rowe. She was the cherished wife of Tomas, with whom she shared 20 years of marriage.
Missy was a proud graduate of J.P. McCaskey High School and found her calling as a veterinary technician at Smoketown Veterinary Clinic. Her passion for animals extended beyond her profession.
Missy had a deep love for the outdoors, finding peace in nature. She enjoyed walking with her beloved beagle, “Banjo,” and road trips with her dear husband, Tom. Their adventures took them to places like Yosemite, Joshua Tree, the Smoky Mountains, and the Finger Lakes as well as many other places. Missy cherished yearly beach trips to Dewey with “The Girls.”
She found fulfillment in taking care of animals, and her love for animals was not limited to her work. She also had a green thumb and took pride in caring for her houseplants.
Missy is survived by her loving husband, Tomas Bigler of Millersville, and her sisters, Cathy Rowe (wife of Larry Milburn) and Bobbie Gebhard (wife of Jimmy). She also leaves behind numerous nieces and nephews who held a special place in her heart, as well as her beloved furbaby, Banjo.
Missy was preceded in death by her dear furbabies: Dr. J, and her two cats: Clyde and Ghosty Greymon.
A Celebration of Life in honor of Missy will be held at 12:00 PM on Saturday, October 21, 2023, at Charles F. Snyder, Jr. Home and Crematory, located at 3110 Lititz Pike, Lititz, PA 17543. Family and friends are invited to pay their respects from 10:00 AM until the time of the service.
In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests that memorial contributions be made to Welcome Home Animal Rescue, 880 School House Lane, Lewisberry, PA 17339 or to Ann Barshinger Cancer Institute, 2102 Harrisburg Pike, Lancaster, PA 17601.
Missy’s memory will forever be a source of inspiration to those who had the privilege of knowing her. She will be remembered for her love of nature, animals, and the cherished moments spent with her loved ones.
Watch the tribute videoLeave a condolence on this Memorial Page
Condolences to the Family
October 21, 2023
Dear Tom, I’m sorry I wasn’t able to make it today. Sending love and healing energy as you navigate this unfathomable experience. You two are Rockstars to me and always will be.
With deepest sympathy
April Booth Swisher
October 20, 2023
I did not know Missy personally, however her husband (whom I work with) spoke so very highly of her and it was very evident the love and joy they shared in life. Please accept my condolences, thoughts and prayers for Tom and family. Jennifer Miller
October 16, 2023
I’m so sorry to hear this. I have so many memories from years ago with Missy. I’ll always remember the fun road trips to Pequea we took just her and I with the windows down and the music blasting. Such a sweet soul. My thoughts are with Tom and the rest of her family.
Jessica Miller (Barnett)
October 16, 2023
Missy was a special one. We will greatly miss seeing her at Turbo and talking fur babies. We were at the Finger Lakes when we heard the news of her passing, and it felt like the perfect place to think on and appreciate our time with her.
Lauren Foltz and Adam Howell
October 15, 2023
I had the pleasure of knowing Missy and Tom through her BFF Melinda Hoffman.
Always full of spunk and had an infectious laugh. Her strong love for animals and her friends
My condolences to Tom and the rest of the family.
Soul gone too soon but never forget.
Stephanie and Joe Murr
October 15, 2023
Peace and love my nature loving, sweet,kind soul sister. Love to Tom and Banjo. Beth Walters
October 15, 2023
Loved working with Melissa and enjoyed being around her. She was always smiling and her laughter was infectious. Gone way too soon. Heaven has a new angel and I’m sure she’ll be hanging with all the animals there. 💖🙏💖 Betty Jung Betty Jung
October 15, 2023
Melissa cared for our Greyhounds at Smoketown Veterinary Clinic several years ago….. She was an incredibly kind and gifted caregiver for our hounds. Our sincere condolences to her family & friends. Rob & Barb Blank
October 15, 2023
My dear friend, taken way to soon. Blessed that I have happy memories of you from childhood and adult life. Sad that our paths will not cross again but forever in my heart. RIP Missy.
Sincerely,
April Swisher and the Booth family
October 15, 2023
Our loss, Heaven’s gain. Your kindness to those around you, two and four legged will be missed. Peace to those that loved her. Loretta ( Dee) Benson
October 14, 2023
Sleep well, my friend I will miss you. My heart felt condolences to Tom and your family. You are a special lady. Hugs! Patricia Remetz
- Visitation
- Saturday, October 21, 2023
- 10:00 AM - 12:00 PM
- Charles F. Snyder Funeral Home & Crematory
- 3110 Lititz Pike
- Lititz, PA 17543
- Map and Directions
-
Get Maps and Directions > - Services
- Saturday, October 21, 2023
- 12:00 PM
- Charles F. Snyder Funeral Home & Crematory
- 3110 Lititz Pike
- Lititz, PA 17543
- Map and Directions
-
Get Maps and Directions >
